1956 Hiawatha 16 hp question

[Brodehl]

I'm working on a 1956 16hp hiawatha. It has not been started since 1986. It back fires, and I can flood the carb, but there doesn't seem to be any fuel in the cylinders(no smell on plugs). Does have spark. The carbureator doesn't have traditional needle valves, but does have a then rod with a light taper only on the tip. It was screwed completely down when I started. Is there a starting point for the valve? The engine is very clean, and looks good with good compression.

Thanks for any ideas.

 

[JB]

Re: 1956 Hiawatha 16 hp question

Howdy Brodehl.

I would start by confirming that the problem is fuel.

Go to the Engine FAQs, "Outboard won't start" and do the troubleshooting there.

The "backfire". Loud bang from the exhaust or sneeze through the carb? A loud backfire throught the exhaust usually means the plug wires are switched or the flywheel key is sheared.

Let us know what you find.

 

[tmcalavy]

Re: 1956 Hiawatha 16 hp question

Turn the knob/rob clockwise until it stops, go gentle here, then back it out counterclockwise 3/4 to 1 full turn. Then adjust it a little either way after it starts and warms up and runs, to find the sweet spot.

 

[steelespike]

Re: 1956 Hiawatha 16 hp question

If it hasn't run since 86 you will no doubt have to go through the fuel system from tank to carb.With special attention to cleaning.Motor was built by Scott
They also built Firestone. Uses a Carter or Tillotson carb.Parts are scarce as hens teeth.16 was dropped in 60 replaced by a much more modern 12 and 14.